Hi all,
I am wondering if replacing upper and lower ball joints along with tie rod ends can be a DIY project, or do I need to pay someone to do it for me.

Thanks

 

It depends on your ability. Read through the FSM procedure or look at videos on youtube and see if it looks like something you're comfortable doing.

 

The lower joints have to be pressed out and the new ones have to be pressed in... if you dont have a ball joint service kit or access to a shop press you will need to...

 

Not true! Without those two aforementioned tools, all you need is a creative mind. If you are planning on replacing, heat and hammer the old one out using a big socket to go around the diameter of the balljoint, heat the joint, and smash the socket with a hammer until it comes out. Granted, this method is not by any means easy, but you can get the job done this way. Just don't heat the new balljoint, grease it, and like before, put the socket around the joint, and hit with a hammer, just not hard enough to damage the new joint.

OR weld a nut onto a big c-clamp, and use that as a press, using your impact to turn the nut should provide enough force to press the joint out.

 

I'd just pay a shop to do it. My local fleet center lets me buy the parts and they install it all. Saves money.

You'll also have to get an alignment so I highly suggest if you're going to rebuild the whole front end, you do it all at the same time. For example, to replace the ball joints you need to remove the brakes. Well, you're already paying the shop to remove the brake system to get to the joints and rods so why pay full labor on replacing the rotors and pads when half the work (removing & installing) them is already done?

I spent about $1,500 to rebuild my whole front end. Feels like a new vehicle now But it was also in really good shape when I got it, too.

 

Or you can get the loaner set from Autozone and save your arms from all that beating... They do charge a deposit but you do get it back after you return there tool...

 

True. Not sure about OP's situation, but I, like a dummy, choose to do the work on a Sunday. No parts stores are open here on Sunday.

 

Here in the states most chain parts stores are open at least 12 hours a day, everyday.. except thanksgiving and christmas...

 

I'm glad I maintain my vehicles so I don't need to worry when a store is open or not lol

 

I dont worry either cuz in the end, if I cant get the tool, my creative mind will, and always has, gotten me through the process.

as for maintaining your vehicle so you never have to worry about the store being closed, you take your vehicles in to get fixed, I fix my own. COMPLETELY different. plus what happens if the shop isnt open? your truck sits while I'm under mine fixing it myself instead of waiting. My D is in like new condition. As soon as a part goes, its getting replaced.